By Sosten Kiprono
Airtel Africa has partnered with SpaceX to introduce Starlink’s direct-to-cell satellite technology to all its Africa markets.
The latest deal signals a shift in how mobile connectivity will reach remote and underserved areas.
According to Airtel, the partnership seeks to provide seamless network access to 173.8 million customers, specifically targeting those in remote regions where traditional terrestrial coverage is not available.
The service, which is set to be rolled out across Africa in 2026, will proceed in line with country-specific regulatory approvals.
How Airtel, Starlink partnership will help Africa
The partnership, which was announced on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, will bring Starlink’s direct-to-cell service to 14 sub-Saharan countries including Nigeria, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Standard smartphones will connect directly to satellites beginning with texting and data before expanding to voice, video, and high-speed broadband up to 20 times faster than current options.
Airtel Africa MD and chief executive officer Sunil Taldar said: “Airtel Africa remains committed to delivering great experience to our customers by improving access to reliable and contiguous mobile connectivity solutions.”
“Starlink’s direct-to-cell technology complements the terrestrial infrastructure and even reaches areas where deploying terrestrial network solutions are challenging. We are very excited about the collaboration as it will establish a new standard for service availability across our markets,” he added.
Similar sentiments were shared by Starlink’s Vice President of sales, Stephanie Bednarek.
He said through the partnership, for the first time, people across remote areas in Africa will stay connected.
“Through this agreement, we will also deliver our next-generation technology to offer fast connectivity, which will offer quick access to many essential services,” Bednarek added.
He further noted that the deal makes Airtel the first network operator in Africa to offer Starlink’s direct-to-cell service, powered by hundreds of low-Earth orbit satellites to provide seamless connectivity to its clientele.
The partnership also reinforces Airtel Africa’s commitment to bridge the digital gap across the continent, bridging connectivity gaps in hard-to-reach areas, boosting education, healthcare, and commerce while complementing existing networks.
In addition, the two companies affirmed that they will continue to explore additional collaboration opportunities to further advance digital inclusion across the continent and expand Starlink’s mission to end mobile dead zones everywhere.
